Then
Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the
high priest, with all the remnant of the people, obeyed the voice of the
LORD their God, and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the LORD their
God had sent him. And the people feared the LORD. Haggai
1:12
I resume my study of Haggai - using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book. For this morning, my focus is a commentary-assisted review of Haggai 1:12 reviewing the commentary for the which is the second subdivision (of the first division) which the commentary entitles God’s Word Brings Forth Fear of the Lord. From the commentary:
- V12 "conveys a couple of ideas about fear, neither of which convey terror, but instead they combine to provide a picture of affection and worship driven by an acute awareness of God’s character."
- It conveys "a sense of submission to the authority of God in response to God's character of God" - His holiness, His awesome power, etc. See also Isaiah 6:5.
- We are encouraged to look elsewhere in scripture where awareness of God drives us to our knees in awe and worship. See Psalm 51:17 where Nathan confronts David about his infidelity with Bathsheba and David's response is a broken humble spirit seeking God forgiveness.
- V12 also conveys a sense of awe in God's power and might. See also Psalm 61:4.
- "The idea that God is majestic, powerful, and able to save is a key element to rightly understanding who God is and to rightly worshiping Him."
- "As we walk in disobedience, and as we find ourselves confronted with God’s Word, our response should be grounded in a fear of God. Not necessarily an abject terror, but instead affection, worship, and trust, rooted in the person and character of God."
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion Jesus - thank You Jesus for my salvation, protection, instruction, guidance and direction, etc. You are SO good! I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
